Gettysburg National Cemetery: Past and Present Burial Practices
One of the most hallowed grounds in United States history, Gettysburg National Cemetery, marks the final resting place for thousands of brave soldiers who fought in the Civil War and subsequent conflicts. However, recent developments have brought about changes in how burials are handled at the site, especially concerning veterans and Confederate remains.
Historical Background and Closure of Original Burials
The Gettysburg National Cemetery was established in the aftermath of the pivotal Battle of Gettysburg during the American Civil War. Initially, burials took place within the original cemetery walls. However, by October 1972, the cemetery's original section closed to new burials, with the exception of spousal interments. This closure aimed to preserve the historical and memorial significance of the site while also managing the limited space available.
Handling of Confederate Remains
Despite the closure of the original cemetery, certain aspects of historical interest and preservation have continued. Notably, several remains identified as Confederate soldiers have been interred in the Soldiers National Cemetery since the Civil War. One significant example is the burial of skeletal remains from the Rosensteel Gettysburg Collection, which took place on Memorial Day, May 24, 1991. The remains were placed in a vault with full military honors, escorted by a vintage horse-drawn caisson and a riderless horse, reminiscent of the ceremonies for fallen presidents.
Another Confederate soldier's remains, discovered in March 1996 in the Railroad Cut northwest of Gettysburg, were placed in the same vault on July 2, 1997, with similar honors. Both graves are marked "Unknown," serving as a somber reminder of the sacrifices of unnamed soldiers. These interments demonstrate the ongoing commitment to honoring the past, even as contemporary policies limit further burials.
Current Burial Policies and Limitations
Since the closure of the original section, Gettysburg National Cemetery has not allowed new veteran burials. This policy reflects a shift towards preservation and protection of the historical site. While the original cemetery is no longer accepting new veterans, other sections accommodate interments for those who served in subsequent wars. An Annex was added in 1993, situated between the old cemetery wall and Steinwehr Avenue, to provide more burial space for veterans of later conflicts.
The ethical and historical considerations of this policy are paramount. It ensures that the hallowed ground remains a testament to the battles and sacrifices of the Civil War and beyond, while also maintaining its integrity and memorial significance. The field itself still contains undiscovered remains, as evidenced by the unearthing of a set in 1996 by a National Park Service employee. These remains were suitably honored and interred in the National Cemetery in 1998. The NPS has no intention of searching for additional remains, adhering to an archaeological policy that seeks to minimize disturbance to the landscape.
In conclusion, the Gettysburg National Cemetery continues to serve as a place of honor and remembrance. While new veteran burials have been limited, the site remains a critical link to the nation's past, preserving the memories and sacrifices of those who fought and fell in the Civil War and later conflicts.